On Top of the World!

The Avon Marching Black & Gold are back-to-back National Champions! They brought home their fifth overall Bands of America Grand National Championship last weekend at Lucas Oil Stadium, besting bands from across the nation.

"Avon is a TEAM, and that team consists of our community, all our of the staff in all of our schools, as well as the band directors, designers, instructional staff, parent volunteers, and most importantly the AMAZING student performers," says Director Matt Harloff. "This is an Avon TEAM award and accomplishment."

The Avon Marching Black & Gold is such a positive reflection of the Avon community to our state and country. Matt Shockley

Avon Marching Black & Gold has appeared on the podium at Bands of America every year (with the exception of 2020 when the competition was canceled) since 2007, including a string of three consecutive victories in 2008, 2009, and 2010 and another in 2023. Since 2007, they have brought home five bronze medals, seven silver medals, and five gold medals.

Avon High School Principal Matt Shockley can barely contain his pride and excitement. "Back-to-back State and National Championships — what a feat to accomplish! This level of excellence can only be achieved through the hard work and dedication of our students, directors, and band parents. I am so happy for them! The Avon Marching Black & Gold is such a positive reflection of the Avon community to our state and country."

This is an Avon TEAM award and accomplishment. Matt Harloff

"I could not be prouder of the students, staff, and parents who work tirelessly as part of the Avon Marching Black & Gold," says Avon Schools Superintendent Dr. Scott Wyndham, who will join the band in Manhattan next week. "In the last two weeks they have won a State Championship and their second consecutive Bands of America Grand National Championship. Now, they'll turn around and represent our community in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade."

Addressing the community, Harloff says, "We hope you all not only feel a part of this success, but also a part of our performance next week at the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade." 

Students are making memories they'll take with them the rest of their lives. Dr. Scott Wyndham

Wyndham calls the band "phenomenal representatives of Avon on the largest stage" and points out that students "are making memories they'll take with them for the rest of their lives."

Congratulations, Avon Marching Black & Gold. Your entire community is so proud of you!